Hello, I scored: Kedah’s Manuel Hidalgo (left) celebrates after scoring against Kelantan United. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Kedah’s Al-Hafiz Harun and Co had to sweat it out to score a win after two defeats but it was worth it.
They huffed and puffed for a 3-2 win against the last-placed Kelantan United at the Stadium Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru on Monday but Al-Hafiz said the win was needed to restore the confidence in the team.
“We fought back after two defeats. It wasn’t easy, but this is precious three points,” said Al-Hafiz.
They had suffered two straights defeats after losing to Police 0-1 in the Super League and then to Penang in the FA Cup first round, where they lost 4-3 via penalty shootout, after being held 2-2.
And in the game against Police, their coach Nafuzi Zain was suspended after being sent off.
“We believe this win will help us build some confidence against Kuching City at the Darulaman Stadium on March 17.”
Assistant coach Victor Andrag, who stood in for Nafuzi, was pleased his side bounced back.
“The boys fought back and showed character. Kelantan didn’t make it easy, but I am glad we pulled through,” he said.
It was the Green Deer who first took the lead in the 21st minute through Brazilian striker Devid Silva, but the Canaries replied with their Brazilian striker Willian Lira in the 34th minute.
Argentinian winger Manuel Hidalgo put Kedah in the driver’s seat in the 45th minute and Al-Hafiz extended their lead in the 79th minute.
Kelantan United, coached by Thomas Trucha, got the consolation second goal in the 88th minute through Brazilian centreback Victor Yan.
Trucha said that despite their home defeat, he did not entirely place the blame on the defensive line.
“I don’t blame my defenders because our attacking players also need to improve and play better in the next game.
“We have a good opportunity to score more goals, but our strikers failed to take advantage, and we lost the game,” he said.
